2026 News Archive

As part of the ongoing transformation of the juvenile justice system in Cook County, Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II today announced a leadership transition within the Juvenile Probation Department.

“The work of building a model juvenile justice system requires thoughtful leadership, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement,” said Chief Judge Beach. “These changes are part of our responsibility to ensure that our system operates with integrity and in full alignment with statewide standards, while continuing to serve the youth and families of Cook County.”

Following a comprehensive nationwide search, Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II announced the selection of Sara Hemmeter as the court’s first Director of Juvenile Services — a newly established leadership role designed to transform and strengthen the county’s juvenile justice system.

WGN TV's Patrick Elwood covered Tuesday's Supporting Education and Employment Development (SEED) Program graduation, which included 10 participants. See his story here: https://wgntv.com/news/cook-county/cook-countys-restorative-justice-empowers-young-adults-to-turn-their-lives-around/

After Jonathan Porter was released on bond for a drug possession charge back in 2021, he realized it was time to change his life’s direction. He was the father of a baby girl, and he needed to be a better man.

“It didn’t resonate to me that I had a little one at home until I got released from jail,” said Porter, of Chicago’s South Side. “I thought, ‘Dang, she’s home… I can’t make those same mistakes.” The arrest wasn’t Porter’s first, but he was determined to make it his last.

Circuit Court of Cook County Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II and the court’s Nominating Committee today announced the names of 14 candidates who will appear on the ballot for election by circuit judges to fill seven associate judge vacancies. 

Daily Herald coverage of fraudulent text message scams, posted by Charles Keeshan: https://www.dailyherald.com/20260325/crime/do-not-click-state-suburban-…

The Office of the Chief Judge is warning the public about a fraudulent “Illinois Circuit Court – Hearing Notice” that is circulating and falsely claims to require payment for unpaid parking charges.

This document is not legitimate and was not issued by the Circuit Court of Cook County.

The Circuit Court of Cook County today announced the appointment of Luis M. Gutierrez as court security services administrator. Gutierrez succeeds Jeffrey Pfotenhauer, who is retiring following distinguished service to the Court.

A search committee appointed by Chief Judge Charles S. Beach II has begun the process of identifying candidates for a new Director of Juvenile Services for the Circuit Court of Cook County.

CBS 2 Chicago's Sabrina Franza had the exclusive interview with Chief Judge Beach regarding the upcoming improvements to the Electronic Monitoring system. See her report here: https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/cook-county-chief-judge-charles-beach-changes-electronic-monitoring/